Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up the ice against the Coyotes during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up the ice against the Coyotes during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) turns against the defense of Maple Leafs' Tyler Ennis (63) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) turns against the defense of Maple Leafs' Tyler Ennis (63) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' William Nylander (29) looks for teammates against a charging Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' William Nylander (29) looks for teammates against a charging Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up against Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up against Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up against Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up against Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Connor Brown (28) shoots against Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Connor Brown (28) shoots against Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) waits for a puck to drop during the first period against the Maple Leafs at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) waits for a puck to drop during the first period against the Maple Leafs at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Jordan Weal (10) skates toward goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) during the first period against the Maple Leafs at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Jordan Weal (10) skates toward goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) during the first period against the Maple Leafs at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) passes against the Coyotes' Lawson Crouse (67) and Niklas Hjalmarsson (4) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) passes against the Coyotes' Lawson Crouse (67) and Niklas Hjalmarsson (4) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up against Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up against Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) waits for a face off during the first period against the Coyotes at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) waits for a face off during the first period against the Coyotes at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) waits for a face off during the first period against the Coyotes at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) waits for a face off during the first period against the Coyotes at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up the ice against the Coyotes during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up the ice against the Coyotes during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' John Tavares shoots against Coyotes' goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' John Tavares shoots against Coyotes' goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) shoots against Coyotes' goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) shoots against Coyotes' goalie Darcy Kuemper (35) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) skates up the ice against Maple Leafs' Connor Brown (28) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) skates up the ice against Maple Leafs' Connor Brown (28) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) skates up the ice against Maple Leafs' Connor Brown (28) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Ilya Lyubushkin (46) skates up the ice against Maple Leafs' Connor Brown (28) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up the ice against the Coyotes during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up the ice against the Coyotes during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up the ice against the Coyotes during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skates up the ice against the Coyotes during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) and Maple Leafs' Patrick Marleau (12) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Alex Goligoski (33) and Maple Leafs' Patrick Marleau (12) during the first period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) celebrates a goal with teammate Nick Cousins (25) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) celebrates a goal with teammate Nick Cousins (25) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Clayton Keller (9) skates against Maple Leafs' Mitchell Marner (16) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Clayton Keller (9) skates against Maple Leafs' Mitchell Marner (16) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Travis Dermott (23) knocks Coyotes' Nick Cousins to the ice as he attempts to make a pass during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Travis Dermott (23) knocks Coyotes' Nick Cousins to the ice as he attempts to make a pass during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Brad Richardson (15) shoots against Maple Leafs' Morgan Rielly (44) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Brad Richardson (15) shoots against Maple Leafs' Morgan Rielly (44) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Mitchell Marner (16) dives and knocks a puck loose from Coyotes' Derek Stepan (21) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Mitchell Marner (16) dives and knocks a puck loose from Coyotes' Derek Stepan (21) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Brad Richardson (15) and Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skate for a loose puck during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Brad Richardson (15) and Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skate for a loose puck during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Maple Leafs' Mitchell Marner (16) dives and knocks a puck loose from Coyotes' Derek Stepan (21) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Maple Leafs' Mitchell Marner (16) dives and knocks a puck loose from Coyotes' Derek Stepan (21) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Clayton Keller (9) skates against Maple Leafs' Zach Hyman (11) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Clayton Keller (9) skates against Maple Leafs' Zach Hyman (11) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Brad Richardson (15) and Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skate for a loose puck during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Brad Richardson (15) and Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews (34) skate for a loose puck during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Josh Archibald (45) celebrates his goal with teammates Derek Stepan (21) and Lawson Crouse (67) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Josh Archibald (45) celebrates his goal with teammates Derek Stepan (21) and Lawson Crouse (67) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Brad Richardson (15) skates against Maple Leafs' Nikita Zaitsev (22) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Brad Richardson (15) skates against Maple Leafs' Nikita Zaitsev (22) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Josh Archibald (45) celebrates his goal with teammates Derek Stepan (21) and Lawson Crouse (67) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Josh Archibald (45) celebrates his goal with teammates Derek Stepan (21) and Lawson Crouse (67) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) scores against Maple Leafs' goalie Frederik Anderson (31) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Alex Galchenyuk (17) scores against Maple Leafs' goalie Frederik Anderson (31) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Coyotes' Josh Archibald (45) celebrates his goal with teammates Derek Stepan (21) and Lawson Crouse (67) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019. Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Coyotes' Josh Archibald (45) celebrates his goal with teammates Derek Stepan (21) and Lawson Crouse (67) during the second period at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Ariz. on February 16, 2019.
Patrick Breen, Patrick Breen/The Republic

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) gets hit on the helmet by St. Louis Blues left wing Alexander Steen (20) during the third period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. The Blues won 4-0. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin) Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) gets hit on the helmet by St. Louis Blues left wing Alexander Steen (20) during the third period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. The Blues won 4-0. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Ross D. Franklin, AP

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) gets hit on the helmet by St. Louis Blues left wing Alexander Steen (20) during the third period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. The Blues won 4-0. Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) gets hit on the helmet by St. Louis Blues left wing Alexander Steen (20) during the third period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. The Blues won 4-0.
Ross D. Franklin, AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson (4) sends St. Louis Blues right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) to the ice during the second period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson (4) sends St. Louis Blues right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) to the ice during the second period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz.
Ross D. Franklin, AP

St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington (50) makes a save on a shot by Arizona Coyotes center Clayton Keller (9) as Blues defenseman Robert Bortuzzo (41) and center Ryan O'Reilly (90) try to block the shot during the second period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington (50) makes a save on a shot by Arizona Coyotes center Clayton Keller (9) as Blues defenseman Robert Bortuzzo (41) and center Ryan O'Reilly (90) try to block the shot during the second period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz.
Ross D. Franklin, AP

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) makes a save on a shot by St. Louis Blues left wing Pat Maroon (7) as Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) applies pressure during the first period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) makes a save on a shot by St. Louis Blues left wing Pat Maroon (7) as Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) applies pressure during the first period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz.
Ross D. Franklin, AP

St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington (50) makes a save on a shot by Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington (50) makes a save on a shot by Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz.
Ross D. Franklin, AP

St. Louis Blues defenseman Joel Edmundson (6) sends the puck past Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) for a goal during the first period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Ross D. Franklin, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

St. Louis Blues defenseman Joel Edmundson (6) sends the puck past Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) for a goal during the first period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz.
Ross D. Franklin, AP

Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) makes a save against the Arizona Coyotes during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. John Locher/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) makes a save against the Arizona Coyotes during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas.
John Locher/AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) vies for the puck with Vegas Golden Knights left wing Max Pacioretty (67) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher) John Locher, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) vies for the puck with Vegas Golden Knights left wing Max Pacioretty (67) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
John Locher, AP

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) grabs a puck out of the air beside Vegas Golden Knights left wing Max Pacioretty (67) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher) John Locher, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) grabs a puck out of the air beside Vegas Golden Knights left wing Max Pacioretty (67) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
John Locher, AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson (4) watches the puck after Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) made a save during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher) John Locher, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson (4) watches the puck after Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) made a save during the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
John Locher, AP

Arizona Coyotes center Alex Galchenyuk (17) slides into the net after scoring against Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) during the second period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher) John Locher, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Alex Galchenyuk (17) slides into the net after scoring against Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) during the second period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
John Locher, AP

Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) is scored on by the Arizona Coyotes during the second period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher) John Locher, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) is scored on by the Arizona Coyotes during the second period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2019, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
John Locher, AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kyle Capobianco reacts after getting checked during the third period of the team's NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Capobianco left the game.Columbus won 4-2. Rick Scuteri, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kyle Capobianco reacts after getting checked during the third period of the team's NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Capobianco left the game.Columbus won 4-2.
Rick Scuteri, AP

Columbus Blue Jackets center Boone Jenner (38) scores a goal in front of Arizona Coyotes center Derek Stepan during the third period during an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Columbus won 4-2. Rick Scuteri, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Columbus Blue Jackets center Boone Jenner (38) scores a goal in front of Arizona Coyotes center Derek Stepan during the third period during an NHL hockey game Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Columbus won 4-2.
Rick Scuteri, AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) celebrates after scoring a goal in the second period during an NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Rick Scuteri, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) celebrates after scoring a goal in the second period during an NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz.
Rick Scuteri, AP

Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) celebrates after scoring a goal in the second period during an NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Rick Scuteri, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) celebrates after scoring a goal in the second period during an NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz.
Rick Scuteri, AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) scores a goal in the second period during an NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. Rick Scuteri, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) scores a goal in the second period during an NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz.
Rick Scuteri, AP

Dallas Stars center Radek Faksa (12) skates for the puck against Arizona Coyotes right wing Richard Panik (14) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in Dallas, Monday, Feb. 4, 2019. LM Otero/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Dallas Stars center Radek Faksa (12) skates for the puck against Arizona Coyotes right wing Richard Panik (14) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in Dallas, Monday, Feb. 4, 2019.
LM Otero/AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) celebrates his goal with teammates Nick Cousins (25) and Jordan Oesterle (82) during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Dallas Stars in Dallas, Monday, Feb. 4, 2019. (AP Photo/LM Otero) LM Otero/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) celebrates his goal with teammates Nick Cousins (25) and Jordan Oesterle (82) during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Dallas Stars in Dallas, Monday, Feb. 4, 2019. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
LM Otero/AP

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper defends the goal during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Dallas Stars in Dallas, Monday, Feb. 4, 2019. (AP Photo/LM Otero) LM Otero/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper defends the goal during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Dallas Stars in Dallas, Monday, Feb. 4, 2019. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
LM Otero/AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Alex Goligoski (33) and Dallas Stars left wing Jamie Benn (14) vied for control of the puck during the first period of an NHL hockey game in Dallas, Monday, Feb. 4, 2019. (AP Photo/LM Otero) LM Otero/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Alex Goligoski (33) and Dallas Stars left wing Jamie Benn (14) vied for control of the puck during the first period of an NHL hockey game in Dallas, Monday, Feb. 4, 2019. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
LM Otero/AP

San Jose Sharks goaltender Martin Jones (31) blocks a shot from Arizona Coyotes center Alex Galchenyuk (17) during the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

San Jose Sharks goaltender Martin Jones (31) blocks a shot from Arizona Coyotes center Alex Galchenyuk (17) during the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

San Jose Sharks center Joe Pavelski (8) scores a goal past Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper during the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

San Jose Sharks center Joe Pavelski (8) scores a goal past Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper during the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

Arizona Coyotes right wing Richard Panik (14) moves the puck past San Jose Sharks right wing Kevin Labanc (62) during the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes right wing Richard Panik (14) moves the puck past San Jose Sharks right wing Kevin Labanc (62) during the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks during the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes right wing Conor Garland (83) celebrates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks during the second period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

San Jose Sharks right wing Timo Meier (28) chases after the puck against Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

San Jose Sharks right wing Timo Meier (28) chases after the puck against Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) blocks a shot from San Jose Sharks center Joe Pavelski (8) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper (35) blocks a shot from San Jose Sharks center Joe Pavelski (8) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

San Jose Sharks right wing Timo Meier (28) moves the puck between Arizona Coyotes center Nick Cousins (25) and Alex Galchenyuk (17) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

San Jose Sharks right wing Timo Meier (28) moves the puck between Arizona Coyotes center Nick Cousins (25) and Alex Galchenyuk (17) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) battles for the puck against San Jose Sharks right wing Joonas Donskoi (27) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Kevin Connauton (44) battles for the puck against San Jose Sharks right wing Joonas Donskoi (27) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) is checked into the boards by San Jose Sharks right wing Barclay Goodrow (23) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019. Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) is checked into the boards by San Jose Sharks right wing Barclay Goodrow (23) during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif., Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.
Tony Avelar, AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Alex Galchenyuk (17) checks Montreal Canadiens defenseman Shea Weber (6) into the boards during the first period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019, in Montreal. Ryan Remiorz/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes center Alex Galchenyuk (17) checks Montreal Canadiens defenseman Shea Weber (6) into the boards during the first period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019, in Montreal.
Ryan Remiorz/AP

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) is checked by Montreal Canadiens left wing Nicolas Deslauriers (20) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019, in Montreal. Ryan Remiorz/AP

Photos: Arizona Coyotes season – 2018-19

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jordan Oesterle (82) is checked by Montreal Canadiens left wing Nicolas Deslauriers (20) during the first period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019, in Montreal.
Ryan Remiorz/AP

There’s only one player on the Coyotes’ roster that spends his practices screaming at the top of the lungs. He’s the only one who can be spotted singing in the locker room and the only one who squirts Gatorade into Clayton Keller’s mouth after an especially impressive goal in practice.

That’s right: Jason Demers is back.

For the first time since suffering a knee injury back in November, Demers was back skating with the Coyotes in a yellow, non-contact sweater at Monday’s practice. There is no timetable related to when Demers could return to game action.

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jason Demers (55) celebrates his first period goal with teammates against the New Jersey Devils at Gila River Arena.(Photo11: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

Still, given Demers’ colorful personality, his teammates took notice of the familiar presence on Monday.

“He has different energy that anyone else on this team,” Coyotes center Derek Stepan said. “He’s a unique bird. When it comes to energy, he seems to have a bunch of it and it seems to help us out a lot. A lot of guys look to him to lift him up when they’re dragging a little bit.”

Demers has endeared himself to his Coyotes teammates and fans since coming to Arizona via trade in 2017. The right-shot defenseman proved to be a complimentary partner to Oliver Ekman-Larsson on the club’s top defense pair.

“I got to play with him for a while last year and build some chemistry,” Ekman-Larsson said. “It was hard to start over with ‘Hammer,’ but it’s nice to have JD back on the ice. He gives us some new energy and a different voice out there. It’s good to see him skating with us.”

From a hockey standpoint, Ekman-Larsson might be the most relieved to see Demers back on the ice. Still, the quiet captain didn’t hesitate when given a chance to rib Demers about his loud tendencies at practice.

“I’m already tired of it,” Ekman-Larsson quipped.

Still, Demers comes equipped with much more than just a big mouth. As a 30-year-old veteran of the NHL blue line, Demers is also one of the stabilizing forces on the Coyotes roster. Although many label Demers as just a joker, several players pointed out his ability to switch between serious and loose mindsets based on the situation.

“As funny as it is, you need that type of personality that can bring everyone together,” Coyotes forward Christian Fischer said. “Yeah, it’s funny and good humor, in the end it’s about the camaraderie of a team. This is for sure the closest team I’ve ever been on … I think a big part of it is the personalities we have.”

Combined with his eclectic personality, there has been a noticeable hole with Demers’ absence. And while many Coyotes players are happy to see him back, there are others who joked about enjoying the rest from Demers’ constant antics.

“It’s been a nice break from him,” Fischer joked. “I know he’s coming back soon because he’s starting to get on the ice, but you can hear his voice around the locker room. It’s back to normal. But I like it. I’m a loud guy so I’m a fan of it. I think we have a nice, one-two punch. He calls me his ‘mini-me’ so I guess I’ll roll with him.”

Although Demers is undoubtedly one of the most-liked personalities in the Coyotes’ locker room, players were wary of paying too many compliments to him for fear that Demers may not let them live it down.

“I don’t want to say anything too nice,” Stepan said. “He might hold it against me and we might get sick of him soon.”

Injury updates

Coyotes center Mario Kempe is a game-time decision for Tuesday’s road tilt against the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday, head coach Rick Tocchet said. Kempe is currently day-to-day with an upper-body injury.

Kempe came out at the beginning of Monday’s practice but left the ice after just a few minutes. If Kempe is unable to play Tuesday, the Coyotes will be without four centers due to injury (Nick Schmaltz, Brad Richardson, Christian Dvorak and Kempe).

Josh Archibald was centering the Coyotes’ fourth line in Kempe’s place during practice. Look for rookie Michael Bunting to crack the lineup if Kempe can’t go.

Both Dvorak and Richardson (non-contact) also took place in Monday’s practice, as well as Michael Grabner, who was also in a non-contact sweater. Tocchet said Dvorak could skate in a rehab game with the Coyotes’ AHL affiliate in Tucson as soon as Saturday, although nothing has been finalized.

Richard Morin covers the Coyotes and Diamondbacks for azcentral sports. He can be reached at rmorin@arizonarepublic.com and by phone at 480-316-2493. Follow him on Twitter @ramorin_azc.

Tuesday’s game

Coyotes at Golden Knights

When: 8 p.m.

Where: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas.

TV/Radio: FSAZ/KMVP-FM (98.7).

Outlook: The Arizona Coyotes (24-26-5) make a quick trip to visit the Vegas Golden Knights (31-22-4) on Tuesday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. … This is the third of four meetings between the teams this season, with the Coyotes scheduled to travel back to Vegas on April 4. … The Coyotes are 0-1-1 against the Golden Knights this season and 1-3-3 against Vegas all-time. … The Golden Knights are led in offensive production by forwards Alex Tuch (40 points), Jonathan Marchessault (39 points) and William Karlsson (36 points). … Vegas is paced in net by goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, who has registered a 29-16-4 record to go along with a 2.51 goals allowed average this season.